Enabling technologies of energy efficient cooperative M2M networks: Benefits and challenges

Cooperative Communication (CC) and Machine to Machine (M2M) networks have recently emerged as promising techniques for improving spectral efficiency and extending network coverage. CC generated significant interest in the research community for optimizing Energy Efficiency (EE) in next-generation networks. However, envisioning CC as an energy-saving solution for M2M networks gives rise to unresolved problems and significant challenges. In this paper, we discuss the enabling technologies for cooperation in M2M networks, the benefits and challenges of employing these technologies and the open research issues. We first provide an overview of each technology for cooperation in M2M networks. We then study the interaction between the cooperation techniques and the M2M energy-efficient networks employing each of these technologies. We also provide the latest standardization activities of M2M communication in LTE-Advanced networks.